The Landscape of “Aging in Place” in Gerontology Literature: Emergence, Theoretical Perspectives, and Influencing Factors

Abstract

The literature on the concept of “aging in place” covers a wide range of areas; however, there is no consensus on how it should be defined or on the influencing factors. This literature review aimed to identify its definitions, related processes, and factors. Results showed there was much variability in the definition and theoretical assumptions and that older adults’ perspective was rarely included. Influencing factors and processes included individual experiences and characteristics, home and neighborhood built environment, social support, community-based services, and mobility. Practitioners and policymakers need to prioritize multidisciplinary and multisectoral approaches to effectively support aging in place.

Keywords:

• Aging in place
• scoping review
• theory
• environmental gerontology
• neighborhood
• mobility

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported in part by the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Doctoral Scholarship of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.